Planning your home remodeling in San Diego for 2026? Homeowners who plan to sell their property or improve their living space should consider home remodeling projects as a valuable investment opportunity. Based on recent data, home repair costs have already risen to about 40%, which is above 2019 levels. You also need to consider that some projects are more valuable than others, and some do not provide the same return on your investment.
If you’re looking for quick, high-impact upgrades before selling, here are the renovations that typically deliver the strongest ROI
The 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, compiled by Zonda‘s expert team, offers valuable insights to help homeowners delve deeper and achieve the best return on investment (ROI).
Curb Appeal is King
Exterior improvements represent the most effective way to increase your home value. Exterior upgrades rank among the top 10 projects with the highest return on investment, according to Zonda’s research.
Why? Because first impressions matter. Great curb appeal makes a home more noticeable and stands out in the market, which in turn attracts more buyer interest and can lead to a higher sale price.
Zonda’s chief editor, Clay DeKorne, notes that exterior replacement projects deliver the greatest return on investment for homeowners looking to increase their property’s resale value. The current market conditions we have today, along with higher mortgage interest rates and homeowners who possess substantial equity in their homes, make these projects highly attractive because they provide exceptional ROI.
Cost vs. Value: National Average for Home Remodeling Projects
Based on Zonda’s research, below are some home remodeling projects ranked by their highest return on investment for homeowners.
Top 3 Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI
The report reveals that this year’s highest ROI-generating projects are the “unsexy” ones, which attract buyers more than they do grab headlines. The top three projects on the list generate more than 100% ROI according to the data.
- Garage Door Replacement: A new garage door generates an estimated 194% return on investment. The top-ranked project this year brings back nearly twice the investment as in previous years. A new garage door installation provides significant exterior design improvements, enhancing property appeal to potential buyers.
- Steel Entry Door Replacement: 188% ROI. Replacing or installing a steel front door provides both security benefits and an improved visual look for your house. The simple installation produces a major return on investment, and it might be worth a try from your end.
- Manufactured Stone Veneer: 153% ROI. I’d say this is more prevalent on the East Coast than in Southern California, where we see more stucco and wood siding. Stone veneer installation for exterior home surfaces creates a luxurious, durable appearance that remains resilient in harsh weather. Homeowners find great value in this stylish upgrade, which also appeals to potential buyers.
Doors are a great place to start; it’s a small project, but it has a large impact.
“A new garage door or new entry door can make a pronounced difference,” says Todd Tomalak, principal of Zonda Advisory. “It could be the thing that makes one house stand out against all the others, making the home worth a higher price.”
The Zonda list includes not only glamorous upgrades but also some not-so-glamorous ones. The new roof, window replacement, and HVAC conversion were also included on Zonda’s list.
Key Takeaway
The data indicates that a luxurious kitchen remodel may not return as much value during resale. You don’t have to give up on a new kitchen, though! To maximize your return on investment, begin with exterior improvements and strategic interior updates.
FAQs: Remodeling a Home in San Diego for Maximum ROI
- What remodeling projects have the best ROI in San Diego?
Exterior upgrades tend to deliver the strongest ROI in San Diego. Projects like garage doors, entry doors, and curb appeal improvements often return more value than major interior remodels. - Is a kitchen remodel worth it before selling a home?
Sometimes, but it depends on the condition. A full kitchen remodel may not return as much value as smaller strategic upgrades. In many cases, improved lighting, paint, hardware, and minor refreshes deliver better ROI. - Should I remodel before selling or sell as-is?
If the home is functional and clean, you usually don’t need a full remodel. The best approach is to focus on high-impact projects that buyers notice immediately, especially exterior presentation and key repairs. - What are the biggest renovation mistakes sellers make?
Over-improving for the neighborhood, choosing trendy finishes that don’t match the home, and spending too much on upgrades that buyers don’t value. ROI is highest when projects are simple, clean, and market-friendly. - How do I decide which remodeling projects are worth it for my home?
The best method is to compare your home to recent neighborhood sales and identify what buyers are paying premiums for. A local agent can help you prioritize projects that improve marketability without overspending.
Next step: If you’re thinking about selling and want a quick plan for what to improve (and what to skip), we can pull neighborhood comps and give you a focused upgrade list based on today’s buyer demand.